If you are in search of a delightful treat that’s both comforting and indulgent, this Nutella Muffins Recipe is exactly what you need in your baking repertoire. Imagine soft, fluffy muffins with a rich swirl of creamy Nutella hidden inside, delivering pockets of hazelnut-chocolate bliss in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a cozy snack, these muffins blend classic baking ingredients with the heavenly flavor of Nutella to create a truly irresistible experience that’s easy to make and shares the warmth of homemade goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A silver muffin tray filled with twelve cups of light brown batter, each cup topped with a dollop of thick, shiny dark chocolate in the center, giving a rich contrast to the soft texture of the batter below. The tray sits on a white marbled surface that adds a clean and bright background to the scene. The muffin cups are evenly filled with the batter, showing a slightly rough surface with small air bubbles, and the chocolate is smooth with gentle swirls. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting ready to bake these delightful Nutella muffins is a breeze, as the ingredients are simple yet come together to build layers of flavor, texture, and that lovely golden color. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tang of buttermilk that tenderizes, to the hint of cinnamon that adds warmth, and of course, the star ingredient Nutella that creates those luscious pockets of gooey delight.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for soft, tender muffins that hold their shape beautifully.
1½ teaspoon baking powder (Double acting): Gives the muffins a lovely rise and light texture.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to ensure perfect fluffiness.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle warm spice that complements the Nutella perfectly.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
1 large egg: Helps bind ingredients and adds moisture to the batter.
⅔ cup brown sugar (Light or dark): Brings deep caramel notes and sweetness.
¾ cup buttermilk: Adds tanginess and tenderizes the crumb for moist muffins.
¼ cup unsalted butter (Melted and cooled): Enriches the batter with a creamy texture and buttery goodness.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (Or vanilla paste): Infuses warm, fragrant flavor throughout.
1 cup Nutella: The luscious, creamy hazelnut spread that makes these muffins unforgettable.

How to Make Nutella Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Muffin Tin

Begin by heating your oven to 400 F (204 C). Lightly grease and dust a 12-cup standard muffin tin with flour to ensure your muffins don’t stick, or if you prefer larger treats, use a 6-cup jumbo muffin tin instead for an extra satisfying bite.

Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients

Use a mesh strainer to sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt into a large mixing bowl. This step is important to aerate the flour and evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices, which leads to perfectly tender muffins.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

In a blender, combine the large egg, brown sugar, buttermilk, melted and cooled butter, and vanilla extract. Blend these ingredients for about 30 seconds until the mixture is smooth. This ensures the sugars dissolve slightly and the wet ingredients are well incorporated for a consistent batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of sifted dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined, making sure there are no flour streaks left. Be careful not to overmix; a thick batter with slight lumps is exactly what you want for soft muffins.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Cups

Spoon the batter to fill each muffin cup about one-quarter full. This allows room for the Nutella filling and top batter layer without overflowing.

Step 6: Add Nutella Swirls

Add about ½ to 1 teaspoon of Nutella into the center of each muffin cup. This hidden dollop is what makes these muffins so indulgent, creating little molten pockets of fudge in every bite.

Step 7: Top with Remaining Batter and Bake

Cover each Nutella dollop with enough batter to fill the muffin cup about three-quarters full. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes at 400 F, then reduce the heat to 375 F (190 C) and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the muffins are golden and a toothpick inserted near the edge (but not in the Nutella) comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, transfer the muffins to a wire rack and let them cool before trying to remove them from the pan. This resting time helps the muffins set perfectly and keeps the gooey Nutella intact.

How to Serve Nutella Muffins Recipe

Three golden brown muffins with visible dark purple spots inside and cracks on top sit on a white parchment paper over a light wooden board. A gold-colored butter knife lies in front of the muffins on the board. Behind them, a small white bowl filled with smooth, dark purple jam and a clear glass cup of light brown layered coffee are placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a beautiful presentation and an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle powdered sugar lightly over the tops of the cooled muffins or drizzle a little melted Nutella on top. You can also add sliced toasted hazelnuts for crunch and a nutty accent that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.

Side Dishes

These Nutella muffins shine on their own, but pairing them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or warm cocoa makes the experience even more delightful. For a balanced breakfast, consider serving alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or banana slices that add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the muffins in half and spreading a little extra Nutella or cream cheese inside for a decadent sandwich-style treat. For parties or brunches, serve them on a decorative platter garnished with edible flowers or fresh mint leaves to turn these humble muffins into a stunning centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store your Nutella muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them moist and soft, perfect for snacking without any loss of flavor or texture.

Freezing

These muffins freeze wonderfully. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen Nutella muffins stay fresh for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy them anytime you crave a quick chocolaty snack.

Reheating

When ready to eat, thaw the muffins at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 20 seconds to revive their soft, cozy texture. You can also briefly heat them in an oven at 300 F (150 C) for 5 to 7 minutes to regain that freshly baked feeling with a slightly crisp top.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to mimic the acidity of buttermilk, which helps make the muffins tender and fluffy.

How do I know when the muffins are fully baked?

Insert a toothpick near the muffin’s edge away from the Nutella swirl; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your muffins are ready. Avoid poking into the Nutella to prevent a sticky test result.

Can I make Nutella Muffins Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend designed for baking, making sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for the best texture.

Is it better to use dark or light brown sugar?

Either type works well; dark brown sugar gives a richer, more molasses flavor, while light brown sugar offers a milder sweetness. Feel free to pick whichever you prefer or have on hand.

Can these muffins be made dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute buttermilk with a dairy-free milk and a bit of lemon juice, and replace butter with a plant-based alternative. The muffins will still be moist and delicious with these swaps.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about sharing homemade muffins filled with swirls of Nutella, and this Nutella Muffins Recipe is one of those gems that never disappoints. It’s simple to prepare but delivers a rich, comforting experience that feels special every time. Give it a try and watch how quickly these muffins become a beloved classic in your kitchen!